For HME | DME providers, inventory is one of the largest and most critical expenses. Yet according to new independent research, suboptimal inventory management is draining more than $4 billion annually from the industry — and holding providers back from achieving growth, efficiency, and profitability.
HME360, in partnership with in90group Research, has released a groundbreaking study: Inventory and Asset Management Gaps in the HME/DME Industry. The report reveals how outdated processes like manual inventory counts, lack of integration with billing systems, and limited visibility are directly impacting revenue, staff productivity, and margins.
Key Findings from the Report
- $4 billion lost each year due to excess inventory, wasted labor, write-offs, and missed revenue opportunities.
- Nearly 90% of HME providers still rely on manual inventory counts.
- 65% of providers admit they are missing revenue opportunities because of inventory problems.
- Fewer than 1 in 10 leaders believe their inventory systems are fully optimized.
The Impact: Financial Strain and Staff Burnout
When inventory is not effectively managed, HME organizations face:
- Lost revenue due to missing or misplaced assets.
- Excessive labor costs from manual tracking and correcting human errors.
- Staff stress and turnover from time-consuming monthly counts.
It’s not just a financial issue — it’s a staffing and patient care issue too.
The Opportunity: Inventory Optimization
Forward-looking HME leaders are shifting from simple inventory management to inventory optimization. According to the research, the benefits are significant:
- Freeing up staff time for other initiatives
- Reducing inventory shrinkage
- Improving profit margins
- Increasing cash flow
Optimization allows providers to do more with the resources they already have, reducing waste and improving control.
What HME Leaders Say They Need
The study also reveals the top must-haves for inventory optimization software solutions:
- Integration with billing systems
- Lowering the cost of inventory management
- Complete, real-time visibility
These are the features leaders believe will transform inventory from a liability into a strategic asset.
The Path Forward: Inventory Optimization
HME providers can’t control reimbursement cuts, audits, or staffing shortages. But they can take control of their inventory.
Inventory Optimization with HME360 delivers:
- RFID-enabled inventory tracking across warehouses, trucks, and consignment closets
- Automated replenishment and proactive alerts
- Seamless integration with billing systems
- Real-time visibility and reporting
By embracing automation, providers can quiet the chaos, control their inventory, and unlock growth.
Download the Full Report
The full research report, Inventory and Asset Management Gaps in the HME/DME Industry, is now available. Inside, you’ll find detailed data, charts, and insights to help you understand the true cost of suboptimal inventory management — and how to make optimization your strategic advantage.
